Free Breaking Clear (Full Hearts Series Book 3) by Mj Summers Page A

sweet smell and darkened pavement. The whole world felt fresh to Harper as she crossed the street to the municipal building. She had knots in her stomach about doing this work for Megan, but deep down she knew she could do a good job. A great job, if she could just relax a little and try to enjoy the moment. The best photo shoots she had worked on all had the same elements of joy and confidence that fed into any artistic endeavour. She could get some great pictures—it would be a matter of quantity tonight. The more shots she took, the better the chance she would get the ones Megan needed.
    Half an hour later as the beer garden opened, Harper was ready. She felt somehow important with the camera in her hands and the press pass around her neck. There was already a good-sized crowd out for the event; some were dressed casually and some appeared to have come straight from work, still in their suits but with ties off and collars loosened. The atmosphere was one of anticipation, hundreds of people determined not to miss this moment. As the sun lowered, Harper made several adjustments to the camera’s settings and continued shooting candids of the crowd and volunteers. Just after 7 p.m., the band took to the stage, welcomed by thunderous applause for the legendary Ms. Brown. Lifting the camera, Harper zoomed in on Hazel’s face in time to catch a joyful expression as she laughed and got the audience to its feet. Harper tapped her foot to the beat as she worked.
    “Harper?” A male voice sounded from behind her.
    Turning, Harper broke into a smile as she saw Brent Yearwood standing there, red Solo cup in hand. Brent had been a friend of Harper’s throughout high school. He moved in for a hug. What he lacked in height, he more than made up for in muscle. He resembled a bouncer, complete with the shaved head and crooked nose. “Damn, you’re looking good these days. It took me a minute to recognize you.” His words brought a strong waft of beer with them.
    Harper pursed her lips, letting the corners turn up. “Oh, thanks. God, it’s been a long time. You look great too. How are you?”
    “Terrific. Even better now that I see you. What are you doing here?” He pointed to her camera.
    “Oh, I’m filling in for Megan Sullivan. She’s at home with the flu.”
    “You two are still friends? That’s a dangerous combination.”
    “It would be if we were both here, so everyone’s safe for tonight,” she returned.
    He grabbed her hand. “Come over here. There are a lot of people who’ll want to see you.”
    Plucking the equipment bag off the ground, Harper let him lead her over to a crowded table.
    “Look who’s back in town!” Brent called, slinging an arm around her shoulder. The group turned to him, their eyes falling on Harper.
    She stared into several faces from her past along with some who were new to her, feeling a nervous excitement as she greeted everyone. Smiling, she gave the table a wave. “Hi.”
    Hugs were given and introductions made. Brent sat down, but not before stealing a chair from the next table and squeezing in a spot for Harper next to him. They fell into familiar banter as though no time had passed. After a bit Harper stood up, announcing that she had to get back to work.
    Brent lifted his arm, placing his fingers lightly on her lower back. “Come back over here when you’re done. We’re going over to O’Neill’s after we get kicked out of here. You have to come.”
    Harper’s answer was cut short as her gaze fell on Evan, who was making his way through the tables toward her. They hadn’t seen each other since he’d kissed her, and warmth spread through her body as she watched him. Their eyes met and she could feel her heart pounding beneath her ribs as he neared. She saw him glance at Brent’s hand, his eyes narrowing. Turning back to Brent, she gave him the killer smile she meant for Evan. “Love to. Mind if I leave my bag here while I go do another round of pictures?”
    “Sure